Zagreb, 8 May 2025 – In a bright conference room tucked away in the heart of Croatia’s capital, a small but passionate group of changemakers came together to celebrate something big: the future of a fairer, greener economy.
The occasion was the final Croatian event of BIOLOC, which has spent the last two years exploring how communities can grow stronger and more sustainable through local, biobased innovation. Hosted by our Croatian Partner DOOR, the event was part of a larger international conference — but it carried a distinctly local heartbeat.
A Warm Welcome to Big Ideas
The morning began with coffee, conversation, and curiosity. Participants included researchers, city officials, young professionals, and people working in businesses and NGOs. Some were seasoned experts in the green economy. Others came simply to learn what this “bioeconomy” was all about — and how it might change life in their neighborhoods.
The presenters made sure everyone felt included. The team from DOOR kicked things off by sharing what BIOLOC had achieved in Croatia: from community outreach to practical tools for making cities more circular and inclusive. The focus was on one big question: How do we turn policies into real-life impact — and how do we make sure everyone benefits?
From Compost to Community: What the Future Could Look Like
Throughout the morning, the room buzzed with ideas. One local business shared how they’re helping reduce food waste by introducing smarter composting technologies. Another spoke about the potential of green entrepreneurship — especially among young people — to spark new opportunities in struggling communities.
But perhaps the most engaging part of the event was a lively panel discussion where speakers from different backgrounds — agriculture, environment, policy — tackled tough questions. What’s stopping us from going green faster? How can we include more people in the transition? What role should local governments play?
There weren’t always easy answers, but there was something better: a shared sense that these conversations matter — and that BIOLOC has opened a door.
Looking Ahead with Hope
Though the crowd was smaller than expected (about 30 people instead of the planned 50), what it lacked in numbers it made up for in energy. Many participants said they felt inspired — not just by the content, but by the connections made. A few even suggested launching new joint initiatives, from youth programs to green startups, to keep the momentum going.
There was no ribbon-cutting or big announcement. But as people lingered over coffee and exchanged contacts, it was clear this wasn’t just an end-of-project event. It was a beginning.
As one organizer put it, “We’re closing a chapter — but the story is far from over.”
